by Danica Bunch

As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, it’s essential to reframe the way we talk about breast cancer and its impact on women’s lives.

My journey, as detailed in She Has Breast Cancer, taught me that a diagnosis isn’t the end of the road – it’s a call to arms. Women can emerge from this experience stronger, more empowered, and more resilient than ever.

Breast cancer is often thought of as something that only affects women over the age of 50, but the reality is that it’s increasingly touching the lives of younger women.

We can no longer afford to put off our health checks, assuming it won’t happen to us because we’re “too young”. Prioritising regular screenings, including not just mammograms but also ultrasounds, is crucial for women under 50, as ultrasounds often provide a more accurate diagnosis for younger women.

While some breast cancers are indeed serious and aggressive, we must focus on the incredible progress being made in the fight against this disease. Our collective efforts are driving real change towards the goal of zero deaths from breast cancer by 2030 – a target that Australia has committed to.

To reach this milestone, we need to continue advancing treatments, improving early detection methods, and ensuring that every woman has access to the care she needs.

My experience showed me how much progress has been made in breast cancer treatments already.

New advances are offering women like me the opportunity to live well, even with a cancer diagnosis. It’s not simply about survival anymore – it’s about thriving and continuing to lead our lives with purpose and vitality. We must shift the narrative from fear and uncertainty to one of hope and strength.

Women play an irreplaceable role in our communities, our workplaces, and our families. We owe it to ourselves and those who depend on us to take charge of our health and wellbeing. This isn’t just about getting through the day-to-day; it’s about living a life where we feel empowered to make decisions that support our bodies and our futures.

We as women need to lead by example, prioritise our health, and encourage the women in our lives to do the same.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is not just a reminder to check ourselves, it’s a call to action for women of all ages to step up and take control.

We can reshape the conversation around breast cancer.